Depends on what the weather is, and if there is VFR traffic. If it is
IFR conditions and no VFR traffic is observed, then circle anyway as you
please, while looking out for traffic.

If there are other VFR traffic, I don't like either of your options. Too
much maneuvering for the first option, and it is best to avoid straight-
ins when there is VFR traffic.

I would fly slightly west to intercept the extended downwind and merge
with the traffic.

Alternatively, you could fly south, pass overhead and turn directly
downwind. I wouldn't do the descending 225-degree right. Way too much
maneuvering near the traffic pattern. You could do this if you go a few
miles out, but you are wasting time and fuel on something that could be
accomplished quite easily and safely.




wrote in news:cfiqv0hgqs3mic8c9hr1cv87rpeiikqji2@
4ax.com:

Consider you're NE of the airfield, non towered airport, runway 18/36,
standard left pattern applies, with runway 36 the active. I'm
interested in hearing what your personal method of joining the pattern
would be, while adhering to the FAR's and AIM.

I've two thoughts:

Fly south, then west, pass overhead the field, and then 2 or 3 miles
later do a descending 225 degree right turn, and join on a 45 degree
to downwind, or

Stay east and then south of the airport, and join a straight in
outside 5 sm.

Opinions?

Stan